International Entrepreneur Parole Lawyer
What is the International Entrepreneur Parole Program?
International Entrepreneur Parole is an immigration option that allows foreign entrepreneurs to enter and stay in the United States for the purpose of starting and growing a new business venture.
Unlike traditional visa categories, IEP provides a flexible pathway for entrepreneurs who may not qualify for other business-related visas but have the potential to create jobs and drive economic growth in the U.S.
Key Features of International Entrepreneur Parole:
- Initial Period of Stay: Up to 2.5 years to develop and grow the startup
- Possible Extension: Additional 2.5 years based on the startup’s continued growth and success
- Family Inclusion: Spouses and children under 21 can accompany the entrepreneur
- Work Authorization: Entrepreneurs can work for their startup, and spouses can apply for work permits
Eligibility Requirements for International Entrepreneur Parole
To qualify for the IEP program, entrepreneurs must meet specific criteria demonstrating their startup’s potential for rapid growth and job creation.
Key eligibility requirements include:
- Substantial Ownership: The entrepreneur must own at least 10% of the startup and have an active and central role in its operations.
- Recent Formation: The startup must have been formed within the five years preceding the application.
- Significant U.S. Capital Investment or Government Funding: The startup must have received:
- At least $264,147 from qualified U.S. investors (such as venture capital firms or angel investors), or
- At least $105,659 in grants or awards from qualified U.S. government entities
- Alternative Criteria: If the above capital requirements are partially met, entrepreneurs can provide additional evidence of their startup’s potential, such as:
- Job creation
- Revenue generation
- Notable achievements in science, technology, or innovation
Benefits of International Entrepreneur Parole
The IEP program offers several advantages for both entrepreneurs and the U.S. economy:
- Flexibility: Unlike some visa categories, IEP doesn’t require a specific educational background or existing company relationships.
- Family Opportunities: Spouses can obtain work authorization, allowing them to pursue their own career goals in the U.S.
- Path to Growth: The initial 2.5-year period, with the possibility of extension, provides ample time to establish and grow the business.
- No Visa Stamp Required: As a parole program, IEP doesn’t require a visa stamp, potentially simplifying the entry process.
- Economic Impact: Successful startups can create jobs for U.S. workers and contribute to economic innovation.
The International Entrepreneur Parole Application Process
Securing International Entrepreneur Parole involves a detailed application process. Here’s an overview of the key steps:
- Form I-941 Submission: File the Application for Entrepreneur Parole (Form I-941) with USCIS, along with supporting documentation.
- Evidence Compilation: Gather and submit comprehensive evidence of your startup’s potential, including:
- Business plan
- Evidence of qualifying investments or government funding
- Documentation of your role in the company
- Proof of company formation and ownership structure
- Biometrics Appointment: Attend a biometrics appointment for background checks.
- Application Review: USCIS reviews the application and may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) if additional information is needed.
- Decision Issuance: If approved, USCIS will grant parole for an initial period of up to 2.5 years.
- Entry to the U.S.: Upon approval, the entrepreneur can travel to the U.S. and be granted parole at the port of entry.
How Our International Entrepreneur Parole Lawyers Can Help
At De Wit Immigration Law, we understand the unique challenges faced by international entrepreneurs seeking to launch their startups in the United States.
Our experienced IEP lawyers could provide comprehensive support throughout the application process:
- Eligibility Assessment: We could assess your startup and personal qualifications to determine if IEP might be a good option for you.
- Application Strategy: If you move forward with IEP, we could help develop a strategy to highlight your startup’s potential.
- Documentation Preparation: We could assist with preparing the required forms and supporting documents for a strong application.
- Evidence Compilation: We could help gather and present key evidence, such as financial documents, business plans, and proof of achievements.
- Ongoing Compliance: If you secure IEP, we could provide guidance on maintaining status and preparing for extensions.
- Alternative Options: If IEP isn’t the best fit, we can explore other visa options that align with your entrepreneurial goals.
International Entrepreneur Parole vs. Other Business Immigration Options
While IEP offers a unique pathway for startup founders, it’s important to understand how it compares to other business-related immigration options:
| Visa Type | Primary Purpose | Duration | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Entrepreneur Parole | Startup development | Initial 2.5 years, possible 2.5-year extension | Substantial ownership, recent formation, significant capital investment/funding |
| E-2 Treaty Investor | Investment in a U.S. business | 2 years (renewable) | Substantial investment, nationality from treaty country |
| L-1A New Office | Intracompany transferee for new office | 1 year initially, extensions up to 7 years | Existing foreign company, executive/managerial role |
| O-1A Extraordinary Ability | Individuals with extraordinary ability | Up to 3 years, renewable | Demonstrated extraordinary ability in business |
| EB-5 Immigrant Investor | Job creation through investment | Permanent residence | $800,000 – $1,050,000 investment, job creation |
Our experienced immigration attorneys can help you determine which option best aligns with your entrepreneurial goals and qualifications.
Why Choose De Wit Immigration Law for Your International Entrepreneur Parole Needs?
At De Wit Immigration Law in Miami, we bring a unique combination of business immigration experience and entrepreneurial understanding to IEP cases:
- In-Depth Experience: Our attorneys have in-depth knowledge of the IEP program and its evolving policies.
- Entrepreneurial Focus: We understand the startup ecosystem and can effectively communicate your venture’s potential.
- Comprehensive Approach: We provide end-to-end support, from initial strategy to ongoing compliance.
- Innovative Solutions: We think creatively to overcome challenges and maximize your chances of approval.
- Client-Centered Service: We prioritize clear communication and responsiveness throughout the process.
The International Entrepreneur Parole program represents a significant opportunity for innovative founders to bring their ideas to the world’s largest economy. Don’t let immigration law stand in the way of your entrepreneurial dreams.
Contact De Wit Immigration Law today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced International Entrepreneur Parole lawyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can apply for IEP while outside the U.S. If approved, you’ll be granted parole upon entry at a U.S. port of entry.
To qualify for an extension, your startup must show significant growth and success. If these benchmarks aren’t met, you may need to explore alternative immigration options. Our attorneys can help you navigate this situation and identify the best path forward.
While IEP itself doesn’t lead directly to permanent residency, it doesn’t preclude you from pursuing other immigrant visa options as your business grows. For example, you might eventually qualify for an EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) or EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) green card. Our lawyers can help you plan a long-term immigration strategy.
Unlike some countries with dedicated startup visas, IEP is a parole program, not a visa. This offers some flexibility but also means it doesn’t provide a direct path to permanent residency. However, IEP’s focus on high-potential startups and its relatively lower investment thresholds make it an attractive option for many international entrepreneurs.
IEP is designed for innovative startups with high growth potential. This often includes technology companies but can also encompass other sectors with significant potential for rapid growth and job creation. The key is demonstrating your company’s potential for substantial economic impact in the United States.
Whether you are a foreign investor or entrepreneur, a U.S. employer of any size, or an individual seeking to immigrate based on your talent or a close family relationship, we offer straightforward immigration strategies to advance your personal and professional goals.
Navigate Complex Immigration Laws Without The Headache Or Stress
The U.S. immigration process is complicated enough. We are here to help you identify clear, creative, and effective immigration solutions and guide you through every step of the process.
-
I’m an Entrepreneur -
I’m an Employer -
I’m an Individual
I am extremely satisfied with the professional services provided by Jose and his team. Their profound knowledge of immigration law, coupled with exceptional customer service, ensured all my doubts and questions were promptly addressed. Highly recommended.